About Sunnycrest Farms

Sunnycrest Seed Potatoes Inc. was started in 2000, by John and Marlene Ekkel. After dairy farming for 17 years, and realizing that we had raised four children that wanted to farm, the dairy was sold and we began a new adventure, growing seed potatoes and grain crops. Our first crop in 2000 was 200 acres, with two varieties. The following year, we added a greenhouse facility to grow early generation seed, as well. Over the years, we have started growing more private varieties. This year, in the greenhouse and the field, we have 27 varieties.

Our operating philosophy revolves around our strong family bond and the ability to work together as a team to produce a quality product. Our commitment to environmental conservation and our passion for farming, fuels our desire to be part of the solution to feeding a hungry world. We look to the future with eager anticipation, as we build a successful and sustainable farming operation, producing a high-quality product and providing mutual success for our family, employees, customers, the communities where we farm and others with whom we do business.

We have been thrilled to have our children return to work on the family farm, which has grown to provide them this opportunity. Our son, Jeff, joined the farm full-time in 2005, after completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture. Another son, Dustin, joined the farm, full-time in 2007, after completing a Bachelor of Commerce degree and brings mechanical skills, equipment knowledge and business management. Our daughter, Kayla, joined the farm, fulltime in 2008, after completing diplomas in Ag Business and Horticulture. Our youngest son, Trevor, ventured to the USA and is involved in the dairy industry there. The Ekkel family members each bring a different skill set to the operation. Jeff has a passion for growing crops and agronomy, while Dustin brings mechanical skills and accounting/ management. Kayla has an administrative role in the office as well as managing the shed for shipping and harvest, along with John. Marlene helps, where needed, and loves to pile potatoes in the shed. Ken White has been our long time valued employee.